US House reconvenes with a significant to-do list and a looming shutdown

Congressional leaders work to keep government funded and pass wartime aid for Ukraine as far-Republicans refuse to budge

With a government shutdown looming and Ukraine desperate for Washington's aid, the House returns to session on Wednesday to face a towering to-do list and strong objections from the Republican right flank.

Congressional leaders worked frantically to reach a deal ahead of the 1 March deadline to avert a partial government shutdown that could shutter vital services in several key departments, temporarily endangering access to federal food assistance programs and federal housing vouchers.